Episcleritis

Causes and Risks:
The sclera is composed of collagenous fibers to form a white, hollow ball. It is the skeleton of the eyeball and is covered by the episclera, a thin layer of tissue containing many blood vessels that nourish the sclera. On the front of the eye, the episclera is covered by the conjunctiva . Inflammation of the episclera is usually mild and usually does not progress to scleritis . The cause is unknown, but certain diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis , Sjogren's syndrome , syphilis , herpes zoster , and tuberculosis have been associated with episcleritis. It is a common condition.

Prevention:
There is no known way to prevent this disorder.

Symptoms:



Signs and Tests:
Eye examination is usually sufficient to diagnose the disorder. No tests are usually necessary.

Treatment:
The inflammation is often runs its course without treatment in 1 to 2 weeks. Topical therapy with corticosteroid eye drops may hasten the resolution of inflammation in 3 or 4 days.

Prognosis:
Episcleritis usually runs its course without treatment. It also responds well to treatment.

Complications:



Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call your health care provider if symptoms of if symptoms of episcleritis persist, or if the eyes are very painful. Also call if vision decreases.